At the 2014 ITU World Triathlon Grand Final in Edmonton Paul scooped two medals; a bronze and silver. This year he's going for gold in a fiercely competitive men’s 30-34 age category.
What is it about competing in Chicago that you are particularly looking forward to?
Chicago, is very exciting and I can’t wait to race there. I’ve never been to this part of the US and really looking forward to enjoying what the city has to offer.
The swim looks interesting as it could be a bit wild in the choppy waters and with a 3 lap bike for the sprint race, it will be interesting to see how congested the course will become. From watching the ITU race last year, Chicago will certainly offer a dramatic backdrop and I can’t wait to race the streets of the 'windy city'.
As a returning medallist, what are your aims going into the race?
This is my fourth World Championships for the sprint race in my age category. In 2012 I took bronze in Auckland. In 2013 I took bronze yet again in London, upgrading to silver in 2014 in Edmonton. I’m getting closer to the ultimate goal of winning, but we will have to wait and see what this week brings.
What is it like competing as part of the Great Britain Age-Group Team?
Racing for Team GB is great fun, it’s great to catch up with familiar faces each year and hear about all their success stories. I’m very proud to put on my team GB tri suit at every race, it’s a great honour.
When you race for the Great British Age-Group Team on a European and World level you are competing at the highest standard as an amateur athlete. The team are all really friendly; British Triathlon and the volunteer Team Managers do an outstanding job looking after the volume of athletes so you are in great hands.
How have you been preparing for Chicago?
This year has certainly been interesting for me. I have been racing much longer distances this year and my season has been very busy including many iron distance races, and half marathons across the UK and further afield in Europe.
Heading to Chicago, this will be my third world championships of 2015 (70.3 worlds, Chicago Olympic and Sprint). My season has been very successful so far, I just hope my little legs can bring some speed for the shorter distance races!
Is this going to be your last race of the season?
It certainly is! I am very much looking forward to have a month off and planning for 2016.
